So, If I get to build this one, I will likely have to sell another to get to it over time, so it will have to be "worth the squeeze"....
My goal is to create a poor-boy "express rifle" of sorts, with some artistic license here and there.
Here is what I need input on:
1. I need to determine a good caliber to go to that fits into my collection and possible needs or wants - I currently have the following rifle calibers ( not counting rimfires)- .22-250 in a custom P17 action, .270 Winchester in this FN commercial action, 7mm Rem Mag in a Mark X, .308 Winchester in a M70 CRF action.
I have family ties to the 7 mag rifle and the .308, and I just finished the re-build/update on the P17 in .22-250, so I don't want to mess with it as it is "done". The .270 is the only caliber that I see overlap from with the 7 mag and .308, and I am honestly just not excited about loading for it or messing with it since it is so close to others.
I am thinking I would like to use that great FN action from the .270 and stay with a .473 rim cartridge to keep the bolt simple, but go up in bore size to something with more "thump" from larger bullet weights than the 7mag or .308 can carry.
I am strongly considering a .35 Whelen chambering for this project for potential deer, Elk, Bear, Moose, Hog hunting, etc.
Thoughts? suggestions? help?
2. Barrel
I could use a blank that is completely smooth, and have it threaded for the receiver end, but, if it isn't much more, a short chambered blank would definitely make things easier and quicker. I like stainless for the durability and corrosion resistance. I think a very darkened gray stainless would be an incredibly serviceable rifle barrel and very tough.
Recommended length (I know it depends on the caliber and intent, but I like short to medium length barrels usually)?
I really like the express-style sights, but I don't know if they are available in stainless or not, if not, it steers me back to a barrel steel that can be blued easily, as I want this one to have some nice express sights. I will have to retain the ability to use a quick-detach scope mounting system of some type with a 30mm scope objective most likely.
Brands to research, sources to obtain, price ranges? It doesn't have to be a national benchrest champion barrel to start. I would like to be able to hit 1MOA as a functional hunting rifle.
3. Stock recommendations?
I love real claro or turkish walnut and sharp, hand-cut checkering and a leather covered buttpad, but, I know that adds a lot of $$$ to the end cost.
Thoughts on Walnut, Kevlar or polymer stocks? Boyds? others?
Who has that classic "express" stock shape?
I have lots of my own thoughts, but, I would like to hear from those with much more experience than I have with this.
Thanks to all in advance!